Hangar B raises over $200,000 for AEDs

Live music, great food – and an important cause. These all drew a crowd of 1,400 to Hangar B 2017, Spartanburg Regional Foundation’s annual barbecue and dance party.

With tickets sales and the support of nearly 60 sponsors, the event raised more than $200,000.

An Automated External Defibrillator, or AED, works by scanning a person who may be experiencing sudden cardiac arrest and, if needed, delivers a shock to the person’s cardiovascular system. The machines come with straightforward instructions on how to apply and use the equipment to the chest.

Because sudden cardiac arrest can occur anywhere, it is important for AEDs to be available in locations where groups of people gather, such as churches, schools, and community non-profits.

“AEDs are truly life-saving,” said Nicole Papst, director of philanthropy and liaison to the Spartanburg Regional Foundation Heart Division. “And they are an important part of the effort to improve heart health in our community.”

Hangar B took place on September 28 at the Spartanburg Downtown Memorial Airport. The weather was warm, but the heat didn’t keep attendees from dancing to the music of Party on the Moon. The band played hits spanning decades and genres, from Aretha Franklin to Journey to Pharrell Williams.

The event also featured a performance by Miss Marion’s School of Dance and a barbecue dinner.

“Hangar B is always a great time. It’s an event that the Spartanburg community looks forward to all year,” said Papst. “Most importantly, it raises money for a wonderful cause – supporting heart health and saving lives. We are grateful to all of our sponsors and participants. And we’ll see you in 2018!”